Navy destroys refineries, routs militants in Niger Delta operations
The Nigerian Navy said it has dismantled illegal refining camps, disrupted oil theft networks and dislodged militants in coordinated weekend operations across Rivers, Bayelsa and Cross River states. The Director
The Nigerian Navy said it has dismantled illegal refining camps, disrupted oil theft networks and dislodged militants in coordinated weekend operations across Rivers, Bayelsa and Cross River states.
The Director of Naval Information (DINFO), Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER uncovered and destroyed five illegal refining sites in Ahoada West area of Rivers State on May 1.
He said the operation, carried out on credible intelligence, led to the discovery of about 15 dug-out pits and reservoirs containing an estimated 85,000 litres of suspected crude oil and 78,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
Folorunsho said the products were traced to a nearby wellhead, though the operator could not be identified.
He added that the refining infrastructure and products were neutralised in line with operational procedures, while suspects fled on sighting naval troops.
In Bayelsa State, personnel of NNS SOROH intercepted equipment used for illegal pipeline connections near the Soku Gas Plant corridor. Recovered items included 10 jerrycans and hoses measuring about 500 metres in total length. No arrests were made, said the DINFO.
The Navy, he said, also recorded gains in Cross River State, where troops of NNS VICTORY and Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka, supported by the Nigerian Army 13 Brigade, stormed Dayspring Island following a spike in kidnappings.
Folorunsho said the offensive forced suspected militants to flee, while a hideout linked to a wanted suspect known as Juju was destroyed.
Two boats fitted with outboard engines were seized during the operation, said the Navy Spokesman.
He added that one suspected informant was arrested and undergoing interrogation, while a 13-hour restriction on maritime movement from 5pm to 6am has been imposed to consolidate security in the area.
According to the Navy, the operations have curtailed criminal activities along the Calabar-Oron channel and denied militants freedom of movement.
Folorunsho said efforts were ongoing to track fleeing suspects and dismantle remaining networks, reaffirming the Navy’s commitment to protecting critical national assets and securing the maritime domain.
He urged members of the public to provide credible information to support ongoing operations.
